A peek at the 2025 depth chart for Miami’s “most talented” two-deep

As college football programs begin to look ahead to the 2025 season, the University of Miami finds itself poised to make a major statement under head coach Mario Cristobal. The Hurricanes are coming off a season of growth, with notable talent influxes through recruiting, transfers, and player development. Miami’s football program, which has historically been a juggernaut in the ACC and on the national stage, is building toward what many believe will be its most talented roster in years.

Cristobal’s second full season in charge is setting up to be pivotal. Having already made significant strides in his tenure, his 2025 team is poised to build upon that foundation. With the combination of elite recruiting classes, key transfers, and a revamped staff focused on development, the Hurricanes are looking to return to the upper echelons of college football.

One of the most significant advantages Miami has heading into the 2025 season is the sheer depth of talent across all positions. The Hurricanes boast a two-deep (starting lineup and backups) brimming with talent, from seasoned upperclassmen to high-impact newcomers. In this article, we take a deep dive into Miami’s projected two-deep depth chart for the 2025 season, breaking down the team’s strengths, key players, and position battles to watch.

Quarterback: A Potential Star Under Center

Miami’s quarterback position is in good hands with the development of their young signal-callers. The competition here will be fierce, as a highly talented group of quarterbacks will be battling for the starting role.

Starter: Tyler Van Dyke (RS Senior)

Tyler Van Dyke, one of the top quarterbacks in the ACC when fully healthy, returns for his senior season after a disappointing 2024 season. While the previous season was filled with ups and downs, Van Dyke’s potential is undeniable. He has the arm strength, poise, and experience to lead Miami’s offense, making him the favorite to start in 2025.

Van Dyke’s deep ball accuracy and decision-making have been his calling cards during his time in Coral Gables, and he’ll look to recapture that form in 2025. Expect the offensive system to better suit his skill set, allowing him to be more effective in the pocket while also using his legs when needed.

Backup: Jaden Rashada (Freshman)

One of the top quarterback recruits in the 2025 class, Jaden Rashada is already making waves in practices. Rashada has been highly touted for his dual-threat capabilities, arm strength, and leadership qualities. His ability to make throws from all areas of the field will keep him in the mix for playing time, and the Miami coaching staff will give him every opportunity to develop.

While it’s unlikely Rashada wins the starting role right away, expect him to push Van Dyke for snaps. His upside is enormous, and if he continues to develop at a fast rate, he could quickly be the future face of the program.

Running Back: A Balanced, Versatile Group

Miami’s running back room in 2025 is stacked with talent, featuring a mix of explosive playmakers and power backs that should give the offense plenty of options.

Starter: Henry Parrish Jr. (Senior)

Henry Parrish Jr. is primed for a big 2025 season after a solid showing in 2024. The senior back has great vision, excellent cutting ability, and the power to break tackles. Parrish Jr. will be the workhorse in the backfield for Miami, and his ability to make plays both as a rusher and a receiver out of the backfield will be key to the team’s success.

Parrish’s vision and quickness will allow him to thrive behind a line that is expected to improve in 2025, and his veteran presence will be a stabilizing force for the Hurricanes’ offense.

Backup: Mark Fletcher (Sophomore)

Mark Fletcher, one of the most exciting young running backs in the ACC, is set to be a key contributor in 2025. The powerful 6-foot-1, 225-pound back brings a bruising style to the offense. His ability to gain tough yards and punch it into the end zone in short-yardage situations will make him an invaluable asset to the team.

Fletcher’s size and physicality complement Parrish’s more shifty running style, and together they form one of the top running back duos in the ACC.

Backup: Chris Johnson (Freshman)

Chris Johnson is another exciting young back that has already made an impression in camp. A top recruit in the 2025 class, Johnson brings speed, agility, and excellent vision to the table. His home run hitting ability will give Miami a nice change of pace option, and he should see the field in a variety of situations, including as a third-down back and in the return game.

Wide Receiver: Depth Across the Field

Miami has a wealth of talent at wide receiver heading into 2025. The group is deep, with multiple players capable of stepping up as leaders and making big plays. The Hurricanes’ offense will rely on the ability to spread the field and create mismatches, and their receiving corps is built to do just that.

Starter: Xavier Restrepo (RS Junior)

Xavier Restrepo is one of the top wide receivers in the ACC and a crucial part of Miami’s passing attack. A shifty and elusive slot receiver, Restrepo has excellent hands and the ability to make defenders miss in the open field. In 2025, he’s expected to be the team’s top target and will be a key part of the offense, especially on third downs and in the red zone.

Starter: Colbie Young (Senior)

Colbie Young brings size, physicality, and big-play potential to the receiver position. Standing at 6-foot-4, Young is a matchup nightmare for smaller cornerbacks. His ability to go up and win contested catches makes him a threat in the deep passing game and in red-zone situations. Young’s development will be critical for Miami’s offense in 2025, and he’s poised to be one of the team’s top producers.

Backup: Brashard Smith (RS Junior)

Brashard Smith is another talented receiver with the ability to make plays at all levels of the field. While not as physically imposing as Young, Smith brings speed and a deep threat element to the offense. His ability to stretch the defense vertically will open up opportunities for other players.

Backup: Ray Ray Joseph (Freshman)

Ray Ray Joseph, one of the top recruits in the 2025 class, is another young receiver who could make an immediate impact. Joseph’s speed and ability to create separation could earn him early playing time, especially as a deep threat and in gadget plays.

Offensive Line: Protecting the Quarterback

The offensive line will be a key area of focus for Miami in 2025. The Hurricanes have solidified their depth in the trenches with a strong group of returning players and key additions from the transfer portal.

Starter: Zion Nelson (RS Senior)

Zion Nelson, a highly-touted prospect, has developed into one of the top left tackles in the ACC. Nelson’s ability to protect the quarterback’s blind side will be critical for Miami in 2025. His combination of size, athleticism, and experience makes him a vital piece of the offensive line.

Starter: Jalen Rivers (RS Junior)

Jalen Rivers has emerged as a strong presence on the interior offensive line. The powerful guard is known for his run-blocking ability and has a physical edge to him. Rivers is expected to anchor the left side of the line, providing stability for the running game and pass protection.

Starter: Matthew McCoy (Senior)

At center, Matthew McCoy will bring leadership and solid technique. McCoy is a reliable blocker who understands the ins and outs of the game, and he will help set the tone for the rest of the line.

Backup: Chris Washington (Sophomore)

Chris Washington is a young player to watch in 2025. His development has been strong, and his versatility gives Miami flexibility along the offensive line. Expect Washington to see significant playing time, whether it’s as a backup or in rotation.

Defensive Line: High Expectations in the Trenches

Miami’s defensive line in 2025 is stacked with both experience and elite talent. This unit has the potential to dominate in both the run game and the pass rush, and it will be a strength of the team moving forward.

Starter: Leonard Taylor (Junior)

Leonard Taylor is one of the best defensive tackles in college football. With his size and explosiveness, Taylor can clog up running lanes while also being a consistent disruptor in the pass rush. His ability to take over games and demand double teams will free up other players on the line.

Starter: Akeem Mesidor (Senior)

Akeem Mesidor is another standout on Miami’s defensive line. Known for his quickness and ability to rush the passer, Mesidor is expected to continue his dominant play in 2025. His versatility allows him to move around the line and be effective against both the run and the pass.

Backup: Darryl Jackson Jr. (Sophomore)

Darryl Jackson Jr. is poised for a breakout season in 2025. With great size and power, Jackson will be an important rotational piece on the defensive line. He’ll help keep the starters fresh and will be a key part of Miami’s defensive success.

Linebackers: Speed and Physicality

The linebacker group is the backbone of Miami’s defense, and the 2025 depth chart is packed with talent.

Starter: Francisco Mauigoa (Junior)

Francisco Mauigoa has become one of the most physical linebackers in the ACC. With sideline-to-sideline range and the ability to shed blocks, Mauigoa will be a key leader for Miami’s defense. His ability to diagnose plays quickly and make tackles in space will be crucial for the Hurricanes.

Starter: Cyrus Moss (Sophomore)

Cyrus Moss has the potential to develop into one of the best linebackers in the country. His athleticism and ability to blitz from the edge will make him a key playmaker in the defense. Moss has the physical traits that make him a nightmare for opposing quarterbacks, and his growth will be one of the most exciting developments of 2025.